P-51D Mustang
in DetailEngine Installation

The Merlin Engine

This aircraft is based at Reilly's and again is a flyer. This picture
offers a good view of the Hamilton paddle-blade propeller of the
P-51D. The propeller cuffs, widely used on Merlin-powered Mustangs during
their operational use, are not present here.

Photo: Bryan Ribbans

With the cowling panels removed one
can see that, although all the bits are there, the colors of the engine,
acsessories and fitings are spurious to original wartime finish. However,
these close-up views allow all the engineering to be shown clearly.

Photo: Bryan Ribbans

The removed bottom cowling panel
reveals the carburettor air duct.
Also note the multiple holes in the framework for the fasteners.

Photo: Bryan Ribbans

Port side of the engine. Once again
it is all there, albeit in 'funny' colors. I am a bit surprised that it was
finished in this way but at least one can make out individual items such as
the oil tank (in yellow).

Photo: Bryan Ribbans

This and the following picture are the best I have ever taken of the engine
bay of a P-51D - in this case of Candyman - Moose at Duxford,
England. Here the colors replicate very closely the actual wartime
operational finish. Just look at the mass of pipes, cables and wires! Note
the paint finish on the cowling bearers. That afternoon while wandering
around the place I just got lucky! In the right place at the right time. A
very short while later the cowling panels were put back on and that was
that....

Photo: Bryan Ribbans

Same engine from the port side.
How I wish that was me in the cockpit!

Photo: Bryan Ribbans

The six exhaust stacks of the
shouded variety on the port side of the Swedish P-51D. The completely
different shade of the metal panel surrounding the stacks is obvious. It is
believed to be made of stainless steel for heat protection.

Photo: Magnus Fridsell

Top side of the cowling and a
prominent panel division line down the middle.

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